Vehicle imports have remained resilient despite the surcharge introduced earlier this year, with Customs officials reporting that imports continue to contribute heavily to government revenue.
Speaking to the media, Customs spokesperson Mr. Chandana Punchihewa said imports had not fallen as expected following the surcharge, even though a large number of imported vehicles remain unsold in the market.
According to Punchihewa, any reduction in vehicle imports has been minimal and has not affected overall Customs revenue.
Vehicles Continue to Drive Customs Income
Vehicle imports remain one of the largest sources of Customs revenue, accounting for around 30% of total collections.
Customs data shows that in January, total revenue reached Rs. 235 billion, with vehicles contributing Rs. 91 billion. In February, revenue stood at Rs. 215 billion, including Rs. 75 billion from vehicle imports.
In March, Customs collected Rs. 231.9 billion, of which Rs. 77 billion came from vehicles. The contribution increased to Rs. 84 billion in April, when total revenue reached Rs. 242.9 billion.
Up to 28 May, Customs had collected Rs. 212 billion, including Rs. 76 billion from vehicle-related taxes.
The figures suggest that demand for imported vehicles remains strong despite higher costs and additional taxes introduced this year.
“Despite the surcharge, no reduction has been reported as previously expected,” Chandana Punchihewa said.
Dollar Appreciation Boosts Tax Collections
Punchihewa also pointed to the recent increase in the US dollar exchange rate as a factor supporting revenue growth.
He said the depreciation of the rupee, partly linked to developments in the Middle East, has increased the rupee value of Customs duties and taxes collected on imports.
As a result, higher exchange rates have helped boost revenue collections rather than reduce them.
According to Customs, vehicle imports accounted for between 30% and 35% of total revenue last year, and that trend is continuing in 2026.
Last modified: June 9, 2026
